Bringing home a puppy is an exciting, heart-melting experience. Those tiny paws, curious eyes, and playful antics quickly become part of your daily life. While the joy is instant, raising a happy, healthy puppy also takes preparation, patience, and good routines from the very beginning. Here’s a helpful guide to getting started on the right paw.

Create a Puppy-Friendly Home

Puppies explore with their mouths, so it's essential to set up a safe environment before they arrive.

• Remove or secure anything they might chew or swallow, including medications, cleaning products, and toxic plants.

• Add safety covers to electrical outlets and protect cords with chew-proof covers.

• Provide a “den” with a comfy bed and comforting toys that are just for them. Many dogs feel safest having their own crate, which can also support successful crate training.

• Offer engaging toys and supervised playtime. These encourage physical activity, problem-solving, and bonding while preventing boredom that can lead to destructive behaviors.

A well-prepared space helps your puppy feel secure and sets clear boundaries early on.

Protect and Prevent

Early veterinary care is one of the most important investments you’ll make in your puppy’s life.

• Schedule check-ups every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks of age to monitor healthy growth and development.

• Keep your puppy up to date on recommended vaccines that protect against serious, potentially life-threatening diseases.

• Start parasite prevention right away, including protection against fleas, ticks, intestinal worms, and heartworm disease.

• Microchipping provides a safe, permanent form of identification if your dog ever becomes lost—far more reliable than collars or tags alone.

• Spaying or neutering at the appropriate age can help prevent certain cancers and infections and reduce behaviors such as roaming, marking, or mounting.

Preventive care lays the foundation for a long, healthy life.

Provide Proper Nutrition

Growing puppies have specific nutritional needs to support their rapid development.

• Choose a high-quality, nutrient-rich puppy food with appropriate protein and essential minerals to build strong bones, muscles, and a healthy immune system.

• Feed three meals per day. Smaller, frequent meals support healthy growth and digestion.

• Use treats sparingly, primarily for training and positive reinforcement. Thoughtful treats help keep training effective and your puppy healthy.

Nutrition plays a key role in both physical and behavioral development.

Build Good Habits and Routines

Good habits start early—and puppies thrive on consistency.

• Housetrain with routine and praise. Accidents are normal, so patience and positive reinforcement are essential.

• Begin basic obedience training early. Short, positive sessions strengthen your bond while teaching good manners. Puppy classes can be incredibly beneficial.

• Once fully vaccinated, socialize your puppy by gradually exposing them to new people, environments, and other pets.

We offer socialization classes for puppies (free for our clients). Please read more here: https://www.tribecavets.com/services/socialization-training or speak to one of our doctors or any staff member.

• Start brushing teeth early to help prevent dental disease later in life. Always use pet-safe toothpaste.

• Provide safe chew toys and avoid rough play that encourages biting.

• Acclimate your puppy to grooming—including brushing, nail trims, and baths—so these experiences remain stress-free as they grow.

Enjoy the Journey

Yes, there will be chewed shoes, sleepless nights, and the occasional mess—but there will also be tail wags, puppy kisses, and a bond that grows stronger every day. With preparation, preventive care, and plenty of love, your puppy will grow into a confident, healthy companion.

Getting a puppy isn’t just the start of a new chapter—it’s the beginning of a lifelong friendship. 💛🐶

For more puppy tips, check out the American Kennel Club.